Basketball Program

Head Coach: Antonio Anderson

Originating from New England, Coach Antonio Anderson (2nd year) flourished in his college basketball career at the University of Memphis. Guided by the esteemed coach John Calipari, Anderson showcased his skills in 110 games for the Memphis Tigers during the school's most triumphant era, culminating in the 2008 NCAA Final Four appearance and National Championship game. Anderson's unique achievement of being the only player in Memphis history to record more than 1,000 points, 500 rebounds, and 500 assists stands as a testament to his exceptional talent. After his graduation, Anderson embarked on a new chapter, transitioning from a player to a coach, a journey that has inspired many.

During his coaching career, Anderson has shown a talent for developing student-athletes and helping them secure spots at all three levels of college basketball. His widespread network of colleges and universities has led to 34 players earning college scholarships since 2016. This demonstrates his dedication to their success both on and off the court. In 2025, Coach Anderson was recognized by the New England Basketball Journal as Coach of the Year in Men's Basketball. 

Head Coach: Jelani Williams 

Jelani Williams arrives at Darrow School to lead the Girls Prep Basketball program with a dynamic blend of NCAA Division I, elite prep school, and professional basketball experience. Known for developing student-athletes and cultivating winning cultures, he has built a reputation as one of the game’s emerging young coaches, bringing a proven track record of success and leadership to his first season as Head Coach.

Before joining Darrow, Williams coached basketball at both Northfield Mount Hermon School (MA) and Cleveland State University, gaining valuable experience at the prep and NCAA Division I levels. At NMH, he served as Assistant Coach and Defensive Coordinator for one of the nation’s premier prep programs. During his tenure, he helped develop 15 NCAA student-athletes, including nine Division I recruits, multiple All-Conference selections, and a National Prep All-American. His responsibilities spanned player development, recruiting, game planning, and the day-to-day operations of a nationally respected program.

Before joining NMH, Williams was a Graduate Assistant Coach for the Cleveland State men’s basketball program, where he contributed to a Horizon League Championship team while earning his Master of Business Administration. His experience also extends to the international and professional levels, including selection as a coach for the NBA Basketball School in France and collaboration with the NBA, WNBA, EuroLeague, and other professional athletes during elite offseason development programs.

A former collegiate student-athlete, Williams is committed to fostering accountability, discipline, and personal growth while helping young people reach their full potential as athletes, students, and leaders. His player-centered approach and dedication to excellence align closely with Darrow School’s mission of developing confident, resilient, and successful young adults.

Head Coach: Pete Matthews

Pete Matthews begins his first year at Darrow at the helm of the AA Basketball team. Before his time on the mountainside, Coach Matthews was a pivotal member of the University of Miami's coaching staff that led the university to its first Final Four and sent numerous players into the NBA. He prides himself on player development and helping each student-athlete reach their fullest potential. His team will be known for their energy, tenacity on defense, and being the best community members they can be. 

Darrow Boys’ Prep Team plays a highly competitive schedule in the NEPSAC AAA bracket. This conference is considered to be one of the top high school leagues in the country and consistently places players in Divisions I-III each year. Our program is designed to prepare student-athletes for the next level on the court and aims to play at the NCAA level after their Darrow graduation. 

Darrow Girls Prep Team plays a highly competitive schedule in the NEPSAC AAA bracket. This conference is considered to be one of the top high school leagues in the country and consistently places players in Divisions I-III each year. Our program is designed to prepare student-athletes for the next level on the court and aims to play at the NCAA level after their Darrow graduation.

The Boys AA team will play a competitive NEPSAC schedule that consists of approximately 25-30 games against teams from the Class AA, Class A, and Class B levels. Players on this team will receive high-quality instruction while they improve their skills before college.